Student & Parent Testimonials
“I've known Anthony since 2004, when I began studying drumset with him in my 6th grade year. As a renowned educator in the greater Philadelphia area, Anthony played a critical role in my early development not only as a drumset player but as a well rounded musician. He always stressed the importance of versatility on the instrument. Anthony opened my mind and ears to many different drummers and styles of drumming, which ultimately made me pursue two degrees in Percussion and Music Education from West Chester University. Not to mention, a rewarding career as a musician in the United States Navy and countless other experiences as a working drummer! I owe a debt of gratitude to him for lighting that musical spark in me.”
—Musician 1st Class Joseph Ganzelli, U.S. Navy
“My career in music would not have been possible without Anthony Cracchiolo. Over the decade I studied with Anthony, I honed my skills from beginner to advanced. He helped me build a solid foundation of the basics, while always pushing me to set and meet my own goals. As my playing advanced, he was a prime resource in his extensive knowledge of performing and music business. The most important lessons, however, were the ones not solely related to music. From the beginning he stressed the importance of dedication, heart, and drive; all of which have aided me in my musical and non-musical endeavors. To this day, I still contact Anthony when I am in need of musical guidance and am honored to consider Anthony a lifelong mentor.”
—Greg LaRosa, Principal Timpanist, NJ Symphony Orchestra
“I have been a professional drummer for over 40 years. I have spent all of those years learning and studying my instrument as well as playing countless events during this time. Music is a big part of my life as well as my wife’s. When my wife and I started to have children we hoped that they too would share this love for music. Both of our children gravitated towards music very early. When my oldest at the time (10) came to me and asked me to teach him drums, I quickly responded with a big and resounding, no way.
I met Anthony in 1996 at a local club and had the pleasure to see him play for the first time. It was clear that Anthony was a gifted drummer and musician. It was through those next couple of years that I really got to know Anthony and learned that he was also a drum teacher.
Being a parent of pre-teenagers, you quickly learn that their attention levels are very low. Pre- teens typically go from one thing to another and your hope as parents is that they find something they enjoy doing that keeps them involved. So when our kids asked about taking drum lessons, I knew exactly where they both would be going. Anthony was our #1 choice. Anthony’s teaching style and approach with my kids was beyond perfect. He has kept both of them engaged now for years. Because of Anthony, our oldest son has been winning elite awards and has had many opportunities offered to him at a very young age. Our youngest son just won best soloist at a jazz competition last week. Anthony played a major role in these proud parent moments.
Anthony has the perfect recipe for teaching at all levels. We couldn’t be happier as parents the guidance and friendship he has shown our boys. I personally am thankful for Anthony for being a good friend.”
—Jeff Colucci, Band leader/drummer; parent of students
More Testimonials
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“We are so fortunate to have found a drum instructor for our son with the perfect blend of knowledge, patience, and compassion. Jake has been taking lessons with Anthony for close to twenty years and he continues to amaze us. Having fine and gross motor challenges along with learning disabilities, Jake continues to excel at drumming. Anthony has taught our son the basic fundamentals of drumming all the way up to the performance level. He has a gift for working with special needs students and is committed to helping build confidence while making lessons engaging. Jake plays a variety of musical genres in a band and occasionally performs at local venues. Through his drumming experiences with Anthony we have watched Jake mature and grow as an adult. He continues to embrace every step of our son’s progression as a drummer. Thanks for all you have done and continue to do for Jake, Anthony!!”
— Parents of longtime student
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"Anthony: Just a little thank you for all you did to make Ray's summer drum lessons so much fun! He always looked forward to coming and worked hard to learn his lessons. Your genuine enthusiasm and caring made all the difference! Thank you so much!"
— Parent of student (with help)
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"Over the years, it is far easier to say that you have taught me musicianship, passion for learning & forgiveness than to simply regard you as a 'drum teacher.'"
— Student Michael L.
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“My son has been taking drum lessons with Anthony for 3 years, and he loves every minute. Anthony is a wonderful teacher — encouraging, supportive, and fun, while always challenging my son to push himself and grow in new ways as a musician. He is thoughtful in his guidance, brings positive energy to every lesson, and truly cares about connecting with his students. Anthony also relied on his own diverse musical background and insights to help my son prepare for an audition with (and acceptance into) the Chester County Youth Orchestra, which has again expanded my son’s musicianship in countless ways. Anthony’s contributions to my son’s musical development have been, and will no doubt continue to be, invaluable. Thank you, Anthony!”
— Parent of advanced middle-school student
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“When I first entered the world of percussion, I had no idea whether or not I wanted to play drum set in a rock band with friends my age, accompany experienced musicians playing jazz, or join my school’s drumline and take up the marching arts. After studying with Anthony for years, I can proudly say I’ve accomplished all of this and more. Anthony never once limited me as I grew ever more curious in the realm of rhythm and drumming; instead he encouraged me and taught me how to approach challenges such as these, not only in music but in life. The guidance he offers is priceless and immensely valuable for any musician regardless of their level. I highly recommend him to any and all inspiring percussionists as I still find myself drawing from his influence as I teach my own students to this day. Thank you Anthony!”
— Paul Martini, former student
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"I started taking lessons with Anthony when I was eight years old, and I continued my studies with him until I graduated high school and went on to study music at West Chester University of Pennsylvania. Now I am a drummer in the United States Army Band, 10th Mountain Division Band (stationed at Fort Drum, New York). I definitely owe much of my musical successes and passion for music to Anthony's dedicated and unwavering instruction. Anthony helped me to become a sensitive, open-minded, and versatile musician; his guidance was invaluable to my path of becoming a professional musician. His mentorship allowed me to audition and study music at the collegiate level, where my horizons were further broadened as I was introduced to several of my first professional musical experiences, be it cruise ship orchestras, world-class DCI groups, big band jazz groups, or street-drumming groups, just to name a few. Thanks Anthony for your patient and inspiring instruction! "
— Specialist Aaron Taylor , United States Army Band; Alumnus, West Chester University College of Visual & Performing Arts
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"My son has been learning drums with Anthony for over 2 years, and his interest towards drumming has only increased with such a great and fun-loving teacher. Anthony is very friendly and easygoing with his students, yet brings out their skill in a very encouraging and inspiring way. In 4th grade, my son was able to play with his school's 5th grade band; this was a very proud experience for us as his parents, and it would not have been possible without Anthony's guidance. My son sees him as a friend, and any questions he may have about drums and/or music simply MUST be clarified only by Anthony! All in all, Anthony is an awesome drummer and teacher—thanks Anthony for all your help and it has always been a fantastic experience working with you!"
—Parent of elementary-school student
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"Our daughter has had drumming lessons with Anthony for over 6 months. There are many reasons we wanted her to take up drumming. We thought it would be most useful for her to learn hand, eye etc. coordination, this is an area where she needs significant assistance. Also, she wanted to learn drumming! Anthony is not only a talented drummer and teacher, but he is able to work closely with his students and resolutely and patiently teach and find ways forward. Most importantly, though, our daughter loves working with him and has fun—she so looks forward to each lesson! I have met many parents of his students and they have said the same. Anthony is a very special teacher who cares for and nurtures his students in a most professional manner. Thanks Anthony!"
—Parent of middle schooler with learning support needs
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"My son has been taking drum lessons with Anthony for the past 2 years, since he was 7 years old. He enjoys going to his lesson each week and Anthony has made the practice time age-appropriate so as not to overwhelm him during the week. My son is now in 4th grade, but playing with the 5th grade band due to Anthony’s successful instruction. Anthony has been a wonderful influence in my son’s life. Anthony is passionate about what he does and he really relates well to children. I would highly recommend him!"
—Parent of elementary-school student